Orange Broadband

[don leocornay]

Up until last week I was a broadband customer with Orange.

I had everything set up by DD as they told me this was the only method of payment they'd accept.

The problems started in February as a result of an ongoing dispute I had with my bank which resulted in them constantly cancelling my direct debit.

I rung Orange informing them of the problem and asking if there were any alternative ways to pay. They said, either credit or debit card. At the time I didn't have a credit card and they don't accept solo so I was stuck. Last month I asked if I could use my sister's card, they said only if we were both there. Unfortunaltely I work days and she works evenings, so there'd never be a time we'd be in the house at the same time to pay.

I finally got a new credit card and called to pay the balance but they've now told me that they've closed the account and I have to pay the full contract term, which works out to about £220.

Obviously I'm not willing to pay this as I've made the effort to explain the whole situation. They've claimed to have tried to call me (at 1pm at home - are they mad?!) and made every effort to chase payment.

What's the best standpoint from here?

P.S. The contract was never signed but I guess this has no bearing here.

[don leocornay]

On top of this.
When I called their (Indian) call centre on the 3rd of July, they told me the account was closed.

I called back 2 days later (UK) and was told that there was no problem, I just needed to pay off the outstanding balance and my service would be restored.

Called again to pay (India) and was told the account was closed, despite the fact that I was told I could pay off the balance.

Finally called back on the 9th (UK) and was told again that the account was closed and that there was no record of the middle conversation (how convenient)

[2Grumpy]

Sounds like it's time for a S.A.R - (Subject Access Request) and a complaint (in writing) to their management. The Subject Access Request might show up the missing phone call.
Put it in writing that the account is in dispute and that they refused to accept payment from you.
I think that you need to start this pretty quickly before they start trying to do silly things with debt collectors & credit references.